Fringe pair want wedding witnesses . . and it's no act

Sarah Gaskin and Simon David, from Roydon, Essex, decided to tie the knot during the Fringe festival.

But the couple don't know anyone in Edinburgh and have instead called on other Fringe fans to help them celebrate their big day.

The couple, both 31, have posted a message on the Fringe website asking for anyone based in the Capital to be witnesses to their marriage during the international event.

"We don't know anyone here," said Miss Gaskin, who has visited the Fringe every year with her fiance since they met in 1996. "But we've always loved the Festival and wanted to have a low-key wedding in Edinburgh that was just the two of us, then surprise our family and friends when we get back."

The pair have already had four responses to their ad - including a pair of Elvis impersonators and a Renaissance Italian acrobat riding a unicycle - but have not yet chosen their two guests for the big day. "We're going to decide soon," said Miss Gaskin. "I was so worried we'd be there on the day, dragging people in off the street and begging them to be our witnesses, but we've had a great response - everyone has been so friendly and helpful."

Miss Gaskin and Mr David are to say their vows in the registry office at India Buildings, Victoria Street, on August 20.